Join us for a week-long intensive with visiting artist Amy Bell, designed for potters ready to deepen their wheel-throwing skills in a supportive and lively studio setting. With a focus on technique and exploration rather than perfect outcomes, this class is ideal for those looking to throw larger, taller, and more consistently—and have fun doing it. Participants will leave with four to six bisqued trophy pieces. An optional glazing session will be offered in September with Amy.
Over five immersive days, you’ll explore form and surface decoration by adding your own voice to your pots through alterations, handles, knobs, feet and slip decoration. You’ll also receive tips and ideas for safe and more sustainable studio practice.
Enjoy a one-hour break each day to relax, eat, and chat with your fellow potters while taking in the beautiful surroundings of Chelsea. You might visit one of the many charming cafés or restaurants in the area, or take a peaceful walk along the nearby community trail.
Tickets available until July 24 or until sold out. Limited spots available—register early to secure your place!
Class information
Start Date: July 28, 2025
Number of classes: 5
Class timing: Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break. The last class will be held on August 1, 2025.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Prerequisites: This class is designed for those who are comfortable centering at least 2 lbs of clay. A sense of humor and a willingness to cut pots in half are also recommended!
Age: Adult (16+)
Language: English
Instructor: Amy Bell
Notes:
Unlimited clay is included, along with the use of tools provided by the studio.
Please bring:
- Sketchbook or notebook + pen/pencil,
- Apron or workshirt and hand towel (clean daily),
- Your favorite throwing tools and texture tools (optional). Tools are also provided by the studio
Instructor Bio
Amy Bell began taking pottery classes as a young mother, and has been making pottery and teaching for over a decade. She is known for her thoughtful and engaging approach to teaching, and brings both skill and warmth to the studio.
Her work is inspired by themes of nature, sentimentality, and textiles. Environmental issues, particularly the effects of climate change, also inform her practice. In 2019, she participated in Flow, a small group exhibition exploring invasive species and their impact on the Ottawa River.
Amy is active in the pottery community and is a Board member of Fusion: Clay and Glass Association. She served as president of the Ottawa Guild of Potters, co-chaired the Guild’s 50th Anniversary, and co-curated the Guild’s 2023 show, Capital Creates: Contemporary Ceramics Inspired by Place, at the Ottawa Art Gallery.
Accessibility and Participation Requirements
Our studio activities have specific physical requirements that may affect participation. This workshop involves:
- Operating a foot-controlled pottery wheel
- Using hands and fingers for shaping clay and tools
- Following verbal and/or visual instructions
- Maintaining and cleaning your workspace independently
We’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment and will do our best to accommodate individual needs where possible. If you have accessibility requirements or would like to discuss accommodations, please contact us in advance.
Accessibility Notice: Please note that our pottery studio is located down a flight of stairs and is not wheelchair accessible. We regret any inconvenience this may cause to individuals with mobility challenges.
Contact us at ceramique@lafabsurmill.ca to discuss how we can best support your participation.
Refund Policy
Full refund minus a $10 processing fee for cancellations made 7 days or more before the event. No refunds possible for cancellations made within 6 days of the event.
Minimum Participation Policy
A minimum of 5 participants is required to hold the workshop. La Fab sur Mill reserves the right to cancel the event if there are not enough registrations. In this case, a full refund will be issued.
Technical Difficulties
If you are experiencing any difficulties with registration or payment, please contact us at ceramiques@lafabsurmill.com.
